Best Vaccination Timing for Dogs: When to Schedule Shot

Part 1: Dog Vaccination Schedule

1. At 68 weeks old: Vaccinate against Canine Distemper and Parvovirus.

2. At 1012 weeks old: Administer vaccines for Canine Distemper, Adenovirus (Hepatitis), Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza.

3. At 1618 weeks old: Vaccinate against Canine Distemper, Adenovirus (Hepatitis), Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, and Rabies.

4. Between 1216 months old: Repeat the vaccines for Canine Distemper, Adenovirus (Hepatitis), Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, and Rabies.

5. Every 12 years: Revaccinate with Canine Distemper, Adenovirus (Hepatitis), Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus.

6. Annually: Reinforce the Rabies vaccine.

Part 2: Important Notes on Dog Vaccination

1. Dog vaccinations should begin after 6 weeks of age, with followup doses given every 2 to 4 weeks to complete a series of combined vaccines. The first vaccination should be administered no later than 16 weeks old.

2. Rabies vaccinations can only be given to dogs over 3 months old. It's crucial not to administer the vaccine too early or delay it too long. The first dose should be given between 3 to 6 months after the puppy is born, with an annual booster shot thereafter.

3. The timing of booster shots is typically based on the vaccine's duration of immunity. Some vaccines can provide immunity for up to three years, while others may only last a year. Once the immunity period expires, the next shot is due.

4. Combination vaccines, such as the twoway, fiveway, or sixway vaccines, are tailored to the dog's health and living environment. These multivaccine combinations protect against various pathogens. The number of diseases the vaccine can combat is indicated by the number of "ways" it is labeled. Imported vaccines often have a longer duration of immunity compared to domestic ones.

5. Puppies under 6 weeks old, newly adopted dogs, dogs with poor health, or those who haven't completed deworming are not suitable candidates for vaccinations. It's essential to have your dog examined by a veterinarian before administering any vaccines.

After vaccination, it's important to observe your dog for half an hour at the vaccination site to check for any allergic reactions. For more information on dog vaccinations, you can continue reading "Knowledge About Dog Vaccinations."